Introducing the 10 Best 3D Printing Materials for 2023, a comprehensive guide that explores the latest advancements in additive manufacturing. As the field of 3D printing continues to evolve, the demand for high-quality materials has become increasingly significant. In this article, we will delve into the top ten materials that are expected to dominate the market in 2023. From versatile filaments that offer exceptional strength and durability to innovative resins that enable intricate designs, this compilation aims to assist both professionals and enthusiasts in choosing the ideal materials for their 3D printing needs. Stay ahead of the curve with our expert analysis and recommendations for the best materials to use in the exciting world of 3D printing.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The ZLR 3D Printer Filament is a stunning PLA silk tri-color filament that offers amazing print results. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02mm and a diameter tolerance of +/- 0.02mm, this filament provides smooth and consistent 3D prints. The raw material used in this filament is from Europe and has been developed to show a fascinating shine on PLA. The filament is also eco-friendly, as it comes packaged in a paper spool instead of a plastic spool. The recommended print settings ensure optimal print quality. Overall, this ZLR 3D Printer Filament is a high-quality option for 3D printing enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Amazing print results with two-tone filament
- Easy to print with high tenacity PLA
- PLA Silk shine for a beautiful finish
- ECO packaging with a reusable bag
- Recommended print settings for optimal results
Specifications
- Color: Blue Yellow and Rose
Pros
- Stunning color transitions in prints
- Gorgeous filament with a beautiful shine
- Good print quality and bed adhesion
- Easy to print and consistent results
Cons
- Difficulty printing small objects
- Limited compatibility with certain printers
- Some minor imperfections in prints
The ZLR 3D Printer Filament is a visually striking filament that delivers impressive print results. It offers smooth and consistent 3D prints, thanks to its dimensional accuracy and high tenacity PLA. The silk shine of the filament adds a beautiful finish to printed objects. The eco-friendly packaging is a commendable feature, showing the brand’s commitment to protecting the environment. While there are some limitations, such as difficulties with printing small objects and compatibility issues with certain printers, overall, this filament is a great choice for those looking to create visually stunning and high-quality 3D prints. Give your prints a touch of elegance with the ZLR 3D Printer Filament.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Silk Shiny Fast Color Gradient Change Rainbow Multicolored 3D Printer PLA Filament is a high-quality and easy-to-use filament that provides fast color changes and a silk glossy smooth appearance. It is widely compatible with FDM 3D printers and is perfect for arts, crafts, DIY projects, and various other 3D print applications. With its vibrant colors and consistent feeding, it offers an exceptional printing experience. The filament comes with extra gifts, including 10pcs of 0.4mm 3D printer nozzle cleaning needles, and is vacuum packaged for freshness. Additionally, it offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and excellent customer support. Overall, this filament is a great choice for those looking to create stunning and colorful 3D prints.
Key Features
- Fast color change rainbow multi colors silk PLA
- Widely compatibility for FDM 3D printers
- Premium quality, easy to print
- Extra gifts & package
- 100% satisfy warranty
Specifications
- Color: Fast Color Gradient Change Shiny Silk Multicolored
- Dimension: 7.87Lx7.87Wx3.15H
- Size: 1kg/spool, 2.2lbs/spool
Pros
- Fast color change
- Silk glossy smooth appearance
- Consistent feeding
- Easy to work with
- Extra gifts included
Cons
- May require adjustment of printing temperature for optimal results
- Stringing issues at high temperatures and speeds
- Not as vibrant on smaller prints
The Silk Shiny Fast Color Gradient Change Rainbow Multicolored 3D Printer PLA Filament delivers on its promise of providing fast and stunning color changes. With its silk glossy smooth appearance and consistent feeding, it is perfect for producing arts, crafts, and various other 3D print projects. While it may require some adjustments in printing temperature, the overall printing experience is fantastic. The extra gifts included and the 100% satisfaction guarantee further enhance the value of this filament. However, it is worth noting that the rainbow effect is more prominent on larger prints compared to smaller ones. Despite this, the filament offers excellent quality and results, making it a top choice for those looking to add a unique touch to their 3D prints.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Silk Green Bronze PLA 1.75 mm 1KG PLA 3D Printer Filament Spool is a high-quality filament that produces 3D prints with a shiny metallic finish. It does not require polishing, as the finished prints have a smooth surface and a lustrous shine. The filament offers good performance, with no tangles, edge warping, or bubbles. It is easy to work with and delivers smooth prints. The recommended print temperature is 195-220℃ and the recommended print speed is below 30mm/s. The filament comes with a 100% warranty and a 1-year limited warranty. Overall, it has received positive reviews for its beautiful results and excellent adhesion. However, some users have reported issues with clogging and brittleness.
Key Features
- High Gloss, Silk Green Bronze PLA Filament
- No Polishing Needed, 3D Prints Finished Have a Shiny Metallic Luster and Smooth Surface
- Good Performance: Tangle-Free, No Edge Warping, Reduce Jamming, No Bubbles, Print Smooth
- Recommended Print Temp: 195-220℃; Recommended Print Speed: Below 30mm/s; Hot Bed: 0-60°C
- 100% Warranty: Premium Quality Guarantee, Within 24 Hours Reply, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, 1-year Limited Warranty
Specifications
- Color: Silk Bronze
- Dimension: 8.27Lx8.27Wx3.15H
Pros
- Produces beautiful and shiny prints
- Good adhesion and print quality
- Easy to work with
Cons
- Some users reported issues with clogging
- Filament can be brittle
- Requires careful temperature settings
The Silk Green Bronze PLA 3D Printer Filament is a great option for those looking to add a unique metallic finish to their 3D prints. It produces beautiful results with a shiny luster and smooth surface. The filament is easy to work with and offers good adhesion. However, users should be aware of the potential for clogging and brittleness. Overall, it is a reliable filament that delivers impressive outcomes when used with the right settings and printers.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Dark Grey PLA 3D Printing Filament by OEM MIKA3D is a high-quality and easy-to-print material suitable for FDM 3D printers and 3D pens. Made with 100% new environmentally-friendly raw material, this filament is odorless, bubble-free, and prevents jamming and warping. It melts well and feeds smoothly, providing excellent printing results. With a diameter of 1.75mm and high diameter tolerance control, it is compatible with a wide range of FDM 3D printers and pens such as Creality Ender and Flashforge. The filament is tangle-free and comes in a vacuum-sealed packaging with dryers to ensure its quality. It is available in a variety of 10 beautiful solid colors. With a warranty and excellent customer support, the Dark Grey PLA 3D Printing Filament is a reliable choice for all your 3D printing needs.
Key Features
- High Quality & Easy to Print
- Strong Compatibility
- 100% Tangle-Free Tips and Printing Setting
- 10 Colors Available & Package
- Warranty
Specifications
- Color: Darkgrey Pla
Pros
- Made with 100% new material
- Environmentally-friendly and odorless
- No jamming or warping
- Melt well and feed smoothly
- High diameter tolerance
- Compatible with most FDM printers and pens
- Wide range of beautiful colors available
- Vacuum packaging with dryers to ensure quality
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Cardboard spool may not fit certain printers
- Some users experienced occasional jamming issues
- Slightly expensive compared to other filaments
The Dark Grey PLA 3D Printing Filament is a reliable and high-quality option for anyone in need of a versatile and easy-to-use material for their 3D printing projects. With its environmental-friendly composition and excellent printing properties, it delivers impressive results without any concerns of odor, jamming, or warping. The wide compatibility with various FDM printers and pens ensures that it can be used with most existing setups. The range of 10 beautiful solid colors adds a touch of variety to creations. Although some users found issues with the cardboard spool and occasional jamming, the overall feedback from customers has been positive, highlighting the excellent prints produced by this filament. With its warranty and dedicated customer support, the Dark Grey PLA 3D Printing Filament is a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced users.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The IEMAI 3D Printer Filament Bundle is a set of translucent PETG filaments in four beautiful colors – transparent red, blue, green, and orange. Each spool contains 250g of filament and is individually vacuum packed to maintain its quality. The PETG filament offers the advantages of both PLA and ABS, providing strength, durability, and excellent adhesion. With a diameter of 1.75mm, the filament is easy to use and produces smooth prints with high precision. The bundle is perfect for testing silk filament and printing multi-color models. It is eco-friendly, odor-free, and comes in a vacuum-sealed bag for optimal storage. Experience excellent clarity, light transmission, and high gloss with the IEMAI PETG Transparent Filament Bundle.
Key Features
- 4 pack transparent filament with 250g each
- Combines advantages of PLA and ABS
- High purity, low shrinkage, excellent adhesion
- 1.75mm filament diameter with +/- 0.02mm tolerances
- Vacuum-sealed packaging to maintain performance
- No clogging, tangles, or bubbles during printing
Specifications
- Color: Muticolor 1
- Dimension: 7.87Lx7.87Wx3.15H
- Size: PETG-Bundle
Pros
- Beautiful translucent colors
- Smooth feeding and stable printing
- Perfect for printing large products
- Clarity, light transmission, and high gloss
- Vacuum-sealed packaging for humidity control
Cons
- Variable filament width
- May require higher print temperature
The IEMAI PETG Filament Bundle is a great choice for 3D printing enthusiasts looking to create beautiful, translucent prints. With its unique blend of PLA and ABS advantages, this filament offers strength, durability, and excellent adhesion. The four transparent colors provide a range of options for multi-color models, and the vacuum-sealed packaging ensures optimal performance. While there may be some variability in filament width and a slightly higher print temperature requirement, the overall quality and value of this bundle make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, the IEMAI PETG Filament Bundle is sure to enhance your 3D printing projects.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Experience stunning 3D prints with the 1.75mm Silk Pearlescent Metal Silver Shiny PLA Filament by BBLIFE. This high-quality filament offers a shiny, smooth surface that adds a touch of elegance to your 3D projects. It is widely compatible with FDM 3D printers and boasts high precision filament diameter tolerance for accurate and consistent printing. The filament is tangle-free and easy to print, ensuring smooth extrusion with excellent performance. Each spool comes in a sealed vacuum bag to maintain its quality, along with an extra filament sample bag. With a satisfaction warranty and premium customer service, BBLIFE guarantees a superior product. Get creative and bring your designs to life with this silver silk filament.
Key Features
- Silk Shiny Glossy Surface
- Widely Support for FDM 3D Printer
- Tangle-Free and Easy to Print
- Package and Extra Sample Bag
- Satisfaction Warranty
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Size: 1kg/Spool, 2.2lbs/Spool
Pros
- Produces nice looking prints with shiny finish
- Easy to use and smooth extrusion
- Good adhesion and strong prints
Cons
- Slight stringing compared to other silk filaments
- Color may have a slight tint
- Cardboard spool instead of plastic as shown
The 1.75mm Silk Pearlescent Metal Silver Shiny PLA Filament by BBLIFE is a fantastic choice for adding a touch of elegance to your 3D prints. With its shiny, smooth surface, it creates stunning results and offers high compatibility with FDM 3D printers. While there may be some minor issues like stringing and color variation, the overall performance and quality of this filament are impressive. The easy printing experience, good adhesion, and strong prints make it a great option for both beginners and experienced users. With the added satisfaction warranty and excellent customer service, BBLIFE ensures a positive experience. Transform your 3D designs into beautiful silver silk creations with this top-notch filament.
Overall Score: 8/10
The MIKA3D Silk Sapphire Blue Shiny PLA 3D Printing Filament is a high-quality and eco-friendly material perfect for 3D printing. Its silk-like feel and glossy surface result in stunning prints without the need for polishing. With 15 beautiful silk shiny colors to choose from, it offers strong compatibility with most FDM 3D printers and pens. The filament is tangle-free, ensuring smooth printing, and comes with easy-to-follow printing settings. Each spool is well-packaged and contains 1kg of filament. This product provides excellent surface finish for printed parts and is widely used in DIY, industry, and education applications.
Key Features
- Silk-like feel with silky shiny surface
- High-quality and eco-friendly material
- 15 beautiful silk shiny colors available
- 100% tangle-free tips and printing setting
- Good package and warranty
Specifications
- Color: Silk-sapblue
Pros
- Produces smooth and glossy prints
- Strong compatibility with most FDM 3D printers
- Tangle-free filament for easy printing
- Good packaging and customer support
Cons
- May have issues with certain 3D printer spools
- Slight stretching and brittleness in cooled state
The MIKA3D Silk Sapphire Blue Shiny PLA 3D Printing Filament is an excellent choice for users looking to create high-quality, shiny prints. Its eco-friendly material and wide compatibility make it suitable for various applications. While there may be some minor drawbacks like spool compatibility and stretching, the overall printing results are impressive. With its affordable price and beautiful colors, this filament offers great value for money. Whether you’re a hobbyist, professional, or educator, the MIKA3D Silk PLA filament can help bring your 3D printing projects to life with a touch of elegance and shine.
Overall Score: 8/10
The XBERSTAR GDEMU Expansion Adapter is a 3D printed accessory designed for SEGA Dreamcast DC GDEMU SD Card users. It provides a perfect alternative to the optical drive chassis and allows for quick game switching with the extended GDENMU SD card box and SD card memory card slot. Made of rugged and durable 3D printed materials, this adapter effectively improves ventilation and heat dissipation, ensuring optimal performance in hot weather conditions. Please note that this product does not include the GDEMU or the host. Before ordering, make sure to check the compatibility with GDEMU versions. Upgrade your Dreamcast gaming experience with the XBERSTAR GDEMU Expansion Adapter.
Key Features
- -It only applies to GDEMU V5.5, GDEMU V5.15 and GDEMU5.15B.
- -The height of the Whit interface is about 0.8cm.
- -Quickly switch game buttons, perfect alternative to optical drive chassis.
- -Effectively improve ventilation and heat dissipation.
- -Made of 3D Printed materials, rugged and durable.
- -With extended GDENMU SD card box and SD card memory card slot, more convenient.
Specifications
- Dimension: 1.57Lx1.18Wx0.39H
Pros
- Allows for quick game switching
- Improves ventilation and heat dissipation
- Durable 3D printed materials
Cons
- Only compatible with specific GDEMU versions
- Height of the Whit interface may not fit all setups
The XBERSTAR GDEMU Expansion Adapter is a reliable and durable accessory for SEGA Dreamcast DC GDEMU SD Card users. Despite the limitations in compatibility and height, this 3D printed adapter offers convenient game switching and improved ventilation. Its rugged construction ensures long-lasting performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the specific GDEMU versions supported by this adapter and assess whether the height of the Whit interface suits their setup. Overall, the XBERSTAR GDEMU Expansion Adapter is a valuable addition to enhance your Dreamcast gaming experience.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Get high-quality 3D prints with the 1KG Black PLA 1.75mm 3D Filament by MIKA3D. This filament is environmentally-friendly, easy to print, and melts well. It is compatible with most FDM 3D printers and 3D pens on the market. The filament comes in a vacuum-sealed package with a reusable bag for storage. It has 100% tangle-free tips and printing settings. With a diameter tolerance of 1.75mm, you can expect consistent and smooth printing. The black color is perfect for a variety of printing projects. Overall, this filament offers great value and quality for your 3D printing needs.
Key Features
- High quality raw material
- Strong compatibility with most FDM printers and pens
- Tangle-free tips and printing settings
- 1KG spool with vacuum packaging
- After-sales service and warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black Pla-1kg
- Dimension: 7.87Lx7.87Wx2.36H
- Size: 1KG
Pros
- Environmentally-friendly and odorless
- Easy to print with no jamming or warping
- Offers a variety of colors and types
- Reusable storage bag
Cons
- A bit more expensive
- Not suitable for lithophanes
The 1KG Black PLA 1.75mm 3D Filament by MIKA3D is a reliable and versatile option for your 3D printing projects. It offers high-quality prints, strong compatibility, and tangle-free usage. With its environmentally-friendly nature and easy printing process, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced users. The filament comes in a convenient vacuum-sealed package with a reusable storage bag, ensuring its longevity. While it may be slightly more expensive compared to other options, the overall quality and performance make it worth the investment. However, it is not recommended for lithophanes due to its translucent nature. Overall, this filament provides great value and reliable results for your 3D printing needs.
Overall Score: 8/10
The 1.75mm Silk Shiny PLA Filament 6 in 1 Bright Colors Bundle Pack from MIKA3D is a high-quality 3D printing material perfect for DIY, industry, and education. This bundle includes 6 spools of silk shiny filament in vibrant colors, providing a great sample pack for 3D printing. The filament is made of eco-friendly raw material and offers low odor, no bubble, and smooth printing. It is compatible with most FDM 3D printers and 3D pens in the market. Each spool has a weight of 0.25kg, and the total pack weighs 1.5kg. Additionally, the bundle comes with free samples of PLA different colors and a premium quality solid stick. With its excellent surface finish and unique silk luster, this filament is a reliable choice for all your 3D printing needs.
Key Features
- 6 in 1 Silk Shiny Luster PLA Filament Bundle
- High Quality Silk Luster PLA Filament
- Strong Compatibility
- 100% Tangle-Free Tips and Printing Setting
- Extra Gift & Warranty
Specifications
- Color: 250g X 6 Silk Bright Bundle
Pros
- Vibrant and varied colors
- High-quality printing material
- Eco-friendly and low odor
- Smooth printing with excellent surface finish
- Compatible with most FDM 3D printers and pens
- Includes free samples and a premium quality solid stick
Cons
- Colors may not be as vibrant as pictured
- May require drying before use
- Filament may break on long prints or with repeated retractions
- Color changes are lengthy for smaller projects
The 1.75mm Silk Shiny PLA Filament 6 in 1 Bright Colors Bundle Pack is a reliable and budget-friendly option for those who want to explore the world of 3D printing. With its vibrant colors, high-quality printing capabilities, and compatibility with various printers, this filament bundle offers great value. While the color may not be as vibrant as depicted, the smooth printing and excellent surface finish make up for it. The included free samples and solid stick add extra value to the bundle, ensuring a pleasant printing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this filament bundle is worth considering for your 3D printing projects.
BUYER'S GUIDE: 3D Printing Materials
Types of 3D Printing Materials
- PLA (Polylactic Acid)
- PLA is the most common and widely used 3D printing material.
- It is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources.
- Offers a relatively low melting point, making it easy to print with.
- Ideal for beginners due to its ease of use and availability in various colors.
- Produces less warping and emits a pleasant aroma while printing.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
- ABS is a strong and durable 3D printing material.
- Known for its impact resistance and ability to withstand high temperatures.
- Requires a heated print bed due to its tendency to warp during cooling.
- It emits fumes while printing, so proper ventilation is essential.
- Often used in functional parts, prototypes, and industrial applications.
- PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
- PETG offers the best of both PLA and ABS.
- Combines the strength and durability of ABS with the ease of use of PLA.
- Boasts excellent layer adhesion, low shrinkage, and no warping issues.
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
- Commonly used for mechanical parts, containers, and transparent prints.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
- TPU is a flexible and elastic 3D printing material.
- Known for its excellent shock absorption and resistance to abrasion.
- Offers a smooth and rubber-like finish.
- Requires a printer with a direct drive extruder for optimal results.
- Used for producing gaskets, phone cases, footwear, and other flexible parts.
- Nylon (Polyamide)
- Nylon is a strong and durable 3D printing material.
- Requires a heated print bed and an enclosed printer for best results.
- Offers high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent flexibility.
- Often used for functional prototypes and parts that require impact resistance.
- Its ability to absorb moisture requires proper storage before printing.
Considerations when Choosing 3D Printing Materials
- Printers Compatibility
- Ensure that the material you choose is compatible with your 3D printer.
- Not all printers can handle certain materials due to temperature or extrusion requirements.
- Print Precision
- Consider the level of detail and precision required for your prints.
- Some materials may offer better print resolution than others.
- Strength and Durability
- Assess the mechanical properties of different materials.
- Determine if your prints need to be rigid, flexible, or impact resistant.
- Environmental Impact
- If environmental sustainability is a concern, choose biodegradable materials like PLA.
- Print Bed Requirements
- Check if the material requires a heated print bed or an enclosure for successful prints.
- Some materials may be prone to warping and need additional support.
- Finishing and Post-Processing
- Consider whether the material can be sanded, painted, or post-processed to achieve your desired finish.
- Some materials may require specific treatments for optimal results.
- Chemical Interactions
- Some materials may react with specific chemicals or solvents.
- Ensure compatibility if your prints will be exposed to certain environments or substances.
Frequently Asked Questions about 10 Best 3D Printing Material for 2023
Not all printers can handle all materials. Ensure compatibility before choosing the material for your printer.
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is highly recommended for beginners due to its ease of use and widespread availability.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an excellent choice for producing flexible and elastic parts.
No, not all materials require a heated print bed. However, some materials like ABS may benefit from it to prevent warping.
Nylon filament is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture. Store it in a moisture-resistant container with desiccant to maintain its quality.
Yes, certain materials can be sanded and painted to achieve the desired finish. However, compatibility may vary depending on the material used.
PLA is generally considered safe and emits minimal fumes compared to other materials. However, proper ventilation is always recommended.
PETG offers better impact resistance and durability compared to PLA. However, the strength of a printed part also depends on its design and infill density.
Some materials, such as PLA, can be recycled. However, recycling processes and facilities may vary, so check local recycling options in your area.
Nylon is a widely used material for printing mechanical parts due to its high strength, durability, and resistance to impact and wear.
To minimize warping in ABS prints, ensure your printer has a heated print bed, use a suitable adhesive or build platform, and enclose the printer to maintain a consistent temperature.
